Martyn's Law, also known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is proposed UK legislation designed to improve security at public venues to protect against terrorism. Named after Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the law requires venues and organisations to take specific measures to enhance public safety. There are five requirements:
- Venues to which the public has access must engage with freely available counter-terrorism advice and training.
- Those venues must conduct vulnerability assessments of their operating places and spaces.
- Risks created by the identified vulnerabilities must be mitigated.
- Venues should have a counter-terrorism plan.
- Local authorities must plan for the threat of terrorism.
For rural and island communities, Martyn's Law brings unique challenges and considerations. Village halls and community spaces may face new responsibilities under the legislation. The law plans to introduce a tiered system of requirements based on venue capacity, with venues needing to adopt basic security measures like staff training and emergency planning if they have a capacity of more than 100 people.
The impact on our communities could be significant. We have limited resources, both in terms of funding, volunteer time and access to specialised security expertise and training. Implementing the required measures could be financially and logistically challenging, especially for venues run by volunteers or with limited budgets. There is concern that the burden of compliance could put additional strain on these hubs, which are vital for social spaces in our communities.
Scottish Rural Action is working in tandem with partners in Scotland, and with Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) to call for a balanced and proportionate implementation plan for any requirements. We are not disputing the importance of this legislation, but we are highlighting that while village halls and community spaces in rural and island Scotland have adapted successfully to many other regulatory requirements over the years, a proportional approach, tailored guidance, coordinated access to training, and in many cases, financial support, is critical.
The new Government is committed to introducing the Bill at the earliest opportunity, and the Conservative opposition has agreed to support it. Policy makers say they are aware of potential challenges, including for volunteer-run venues, but it is important we maintain two-way dialogue with them, and with MPs, while the Bill proceeds through Parliament.
If you have any thoughts on this topic you would like to share, please contact Christine: christine@sra.scot
